I think these cars have one of the best looking rear ends of any 911 and the headlights are now really coming-of-age especially the turbo variant found on these cars.

The 996 C4S will never be a bargain as long as some think it’s a better car than the 5th gen tt.

Its refreshing to see someone from the UK use the correct pronunciation of Porsche.

986 is the real bargain. Not a great deal slower than a 996, not subject to bore scoring, better chassis with mid engine layout, oh and a better sound with that engine right on your spine, whats not to like?

I have a C4S Tip. I use the buttons all the time and can change down a couple gears way quicker than doing the same in a manual. A mere flick of the wrist without taking my hands off the wheel. Agreed the radio/so called info tainment system is old fashioned, but I don't drive the Porsche to listen to the radio! 🤣 Great cars.

Unless you have to drive an auto then you 100% want a manual. Yes i'm biased as I own a manual. But it's so much better to drive in manual form. If you're buying one as a second car, then your buying for fun drives. The manual give you way more engagement..

I think one of the big reasons the 996 was unloved was the change to water cooling and the sharing of some Boxster parts, Porsche had to do this to survive. The IMS issue, Porsche claim failure is around 4% across the 996 and Gen1 997. The Tiptronic box is very good, you can set off in first gear, select first manually as you roll to a stop. I like the Tip in my 996 C4S, no its not as good as the 8 Speed ZF box in my BMW 440i but its not as bad as people claim, even the buttons are okay. Interesting point the Gen1 997 ran hotter than the 996 and appears to suffer with bore score more than the 996. Values are rising around 8% PA.

Good video! I've got a similar C4S in seal grey with a manual gearbox, although it started in much grottier condition that that one! As you say, it's a great daily driver and modern classic. One thing I would add is that they're actually surprisingly easy cars to work on, making even a tired one a worthwhile project if you're good with spanners.

No mention of the bore scoring problem? This is a real thing and very common especially on Tiptronic models as they start in second gear by default there’s a lot more heat generated by the gearbox. And despite looking like a turbo these cars don’t have the turbo bottom end they have the standard 996 engine and it’s issues. I owned a 996 tip for five years it was a great car but it had bore scoring that had been masked by the seller so it always had a taint to the ownership experience. Get a camera in the cylinders, fit a Hartech thermostat and use a thicker oil and you should be good.

I would rather the 2 wheel drive .. I believe it’s 70 KG lighter than , the 4S ..

After having mine for almost five years, I totally agree with your assessment although I have the manual cab. It’s a great car, but it’s critical to get a pre purchase inspection.

Great vid! Only one thing you missed… the sound it makes going from 3k to 7k revs 😁

Really enjoyed this video 👍 I have a C4S myself and everything you mention is spot on. I don’t drive it regularly but when I do, it just brings a smile to my face every time. Thanks.

The c4s is the way to go with this generation 911. I’m predicting it will appreciate in value. For the money you get the turbo bumpers, the 4wd and the best looking rear end with that taillight bar, and those headlights are mean looking, I’ve always liked that shape.

Who said it wasn’t particularly well received?

What an amazing color. It's gorgeous.

Absolutely the best looking water cooled Porsche rear. And you are correct that these are genuine bargains. 993 widebodies start from $120K these days (and that is 4S with a lot of mileage). Insanity. These 996's are still accessible. So great cars.

Love the review. Love the look of these so much that I just went out and purchased one… am loving it… much better in the flesh than on screen actually….

I like the corded telephone, lol.

Have one in my area for 29k with 63k miles clean as a whistle.